LEARNING DISABILITIES: Definitions, Etiology & Prevalence

learn·ing dis·a·bil·i·ty

Noun: A condition giving rise to difficulties in acquiring knowledge and skills to the "normal level"expected of those of the same age.



DEFINITION:

"Across Canada, there are differences in the definitions and major emphases of learning disabilities." (Winzer)

"Learning Disabilities is the most elusive of all areas in Special Education. Learning disabilities refers to a variety of disorders that affect the acquisition, retention, understanding, organization, or use of verbal and/or non-verbal information." (Bennett et al.)

"Learning Disabilities is a syndrome of behaviours that manifests differently in different individuals although the components of the syndrome itself are varied and confused." (Winzer) 

ETIOLOGY:

 

 

(Winzer/Bennet et al.)

 

PREVALENCE:

In Canada, students with learning disabilities make up the largest single group of children with disabilities (2-4% of the general child population and 48% of all students in  special education classes as per Winzer text, table 1-2)

Boys outnumber girls with learning disabilities with a ratio of at least 4:1. (Winzer)
 
 
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